Govt should not dictate what a person should eat: CPI

Says the govts must refrain from such decisions which can create social disharmony

Taking strong objection to meat ban imposed by some BJP-ruled states on account of a Jain festival, CPI today demanded the governments to ensure that they don't dictate what a person should eat and at what time.

"The CPI is of the opinion that state should not dictate what a person should eat and when to consume. Such type of acts based with narrow partisan attitude with definite political motives creates social disharmony. The governments must refrain from such acts," CPI general secretary S Sudhakar Reddy said in a statement.

The party also warned the governments that they must refrain from taking such decisions, which it added, can create social disharmony.

BJP-ruled Maharashtra and Rajasthan have ordered ban on sale of meat during the Jain festival of Paryushan period - a decision which has created controversy especially in Mumbai.

In Maharashtra, the ban, imposed since yesterday, will continue for three more days.

The Rajasthan Government has put restriction on sale of meat on September 17, 18 and 27 in view of the festival period.